Seoul is a highly populated city, with around 9-10 million residents within the city itself, making it one of the largest urban areas in the world. With such a large population, traffic congestion is similar to other major cities, especially during peak hours (TOP BEACHES WORLDWIDE).
The city experiences four distinct seasons, offering different experiences throughout the year, though winter is a popular period. English is commonly available in hotels and major shopping areas, while Korean dominates daily life, including street markets and smaller eateries. Language rarely poses a barrier, simple gestures or pointing are sufficient (FAMOUS TEMPLES IN THAILAND).
Seoul is the main gateway to South Korea, with Incheon International Airport.
Gyeongbokgung
Palace
Gyeongbokgung
Palace is one of the must-do sights in Seoul. In fact, it is not to be missed
and can be considered one of the top attractions in South Korea. It draws
countless visitors throughout the year.
Built
in 1395, after the founding of the Joseon Dynasty, Gyeongbokgung Palace stands
at the heart of Korea’s royal history. It served as the main royal palace, the
center of government, and the king’s residence. This makes it the most
important of the Five Grand Palaces in Seoul. The palace was designed to
reflect the authority and dignity of the monarchy, with grand halls, wide
courtyards, and traditional Korean architecture.
Apart
from the main entrance, there are multiple entrances. Some may be considered
back entrances and are less crowded. These paths lead through smaller, quieter
courtyards and palace buildings, offering a glimpse of daily life in the past.
Eventually, all paths lead to the main courtyard in front of Geunjeongjeon
Hall.
Across
from Gwanghwamun Gate is where the Changing of the Guard ceremony takes place.
Geunjeongjeon Hall, the main throne hall, was where royal ceremonies and
official state affairs were held.
The main courtyard is the most crowded spot in Gyeongbokgung Palace. Countless photos are taken here daily, and many visitors feel the visit is incomplete without a photo of Geunjeongjeon Hall or the view across Gwanghwamun Gate.
The Blue House (Cheong Wa Dae)
When leaving Gyeongbokgung Palace, one of the
buildings that stands out is the Blue House. It’s worth taking a glimpse,
whether walking past from a distance or seeing it from a moving vehicle.
Known as Cheong Wa Dae, the Blue House was the
official residence and office of the President of South Korea. Located at the
foot of Bugaksan Mountain, it is easy to spot thanks to its distinctive blue
tiled roof, which gives it its name.
While it was once open to visitors for a period, it has since returned to being a government facility and is no longer accessible to the public. On tours, guides often point it out, but without guidance, it can easily be overlooked.
National Folk Museum of Korea
The National Folk Museum of Korea is just a 5 to 10-minute
walk from Gyeongbokgung Palace. Being part of the palace grounds, it is easy to
include in Seoul sightseeing.
The museum showcases the daily life, culture, and
traditions of Korean people through the ages. Exhibits cover traditional
clothing, farming, crafts, festivals, and household life. Outdoor displays,
including folk village items and cultural artifacts, give a sense of how
Koreans lived in the past.
The museum is in a spacious, low-rise building set in a wide area. Exhibits can be seen in about half an hour, with extra time outside for the surrounding views.
Gwanghwamun Square
Located in the heart of Seoul, Gwanghwamun Square
is a prominent open space along Sejong-ro, directly facing Gwanghwamun Gate,
the main entrance to Gyeongbokgung Palace. The square is a central gathering
place for both visitors and locals.
It features statues of King Sejong the Great and
Admiral Yi Sun-sin, two of Korea’s most celebrated historical figures. A tall,
dome-like fountain serves as a modern landmark within the space. The square is
lined with flags, sculptures, and panels illustrating Korean history and
culture. It also hosts public events and official celebrations.
Across the road runs the Cheonggyecheon Stream, a 1-kilometer-long public space created as part of an urban renewal project that restored a once-buried waterway. The stream is lined with art installations, small waterfalls, and historic stone bridges. Coins are thrown into the stream to make wishes, and the edges provide space for walking, sitting, or having snacks. Office workers can be seen resting or having lunch, adding a touch of daily life.
Cheonggyecheon Stream reflects Seoul’s commitment to sustainable urban development, blending nature with modern city life.
Other Top Sights in Seoul
Insadong Street
A cultural area in Seoul, Insadong Street is known for traditional crafts,
antiques, art galleries, and tea houses. The narrow streets and alleys are easy
to go to on foot,
lined with small shops selling handmade souvenirs, traditional artwork, and
calligraphy items.
Bukchon Hanok Village
The old side of Seoul, Bukchon Hanok Village is a neighborhood of traditional
Korean houses (hanok) between Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung Palaces. This
historical architectural village reflects
quiet streets for a slower-paced walk.
N Seoul Tower (Namsan Tower)
Whether walking up or taking a cable car, N Seoul Tower atop Namsan Mountain
offers wide views of the city. Around the tower are the famous “love locks” and
observation areas, ideal for visits
during the day or at night.
Hangang River Parks
With parks along the banks, the Han River runs through Seoul. It is a pleasant
spot for strolling, cycling, or simply relaxing by the river, Seoul’s calm side
amid the busy city streets.
Myeongdong Street
Regarded as the most popular shopping and pedestrian street in Seoul, Myeongdong Street has it all. Packed, sometimes back-to-back, locals move alongside tourists. The narrow streets are lined with shops, stalls, and cafés. The area is a major hub for fashion, cosmetics, and street food. Myeongdong Street is a must-see in Seoul. There are also spots to sit and rest, and free Wi-Fi is available throughout the street.
Duty-Free Shopping in Seoul
The three main duty-free stores in Seoul are Lotte
Duty Free, Shilla Duty Free, and DongHwa Duty Free. Located in central areas,
they are hard to miss, as the crowds inside and outside reflect their
popularity.
Lotte Duty Free is the largest, with its main store
near Myeongdong. It carries a wide range of products, including luxury fashion,
cosmetics, watches, jewellery, and Korean brands. The store is structured like
a department store across several floors.
Shilla Duty Free is known for premium and luxury
brands, including high-end cosmetics, skincare, and designer labels, focusing
on international luxury products.
DongHwa Duty Free is one of the oldest duty-free
stores in Seoul. Smaller than the others, it still carries a good mix of
international brands, cosmetics, and souvenirs. Its location near Gwanghwamun
makes it part of central city shopping.
Top Shopping Malls in Seoul
Shopping malls in Seoul range from large complexes
to smaller modern spaces. The top four are:
Lotte World Mall
One of the largest, with luxury brands,
entertainment, and direct access to Lotte World Tower.
COEX Mall
Famous for being underground, with long walkways
and the popular Starfield Library.
IFC Mall
Modern and less crowded, located in the financial
district with a more relaxed atmosphere.
Times Square Mall
Spacious, combining shopping, dining, and
entertainment under one roof.