the 5 best destination to see in seoul
Seoul is the capital city of South Korea, situated on the Han River (Han-gang) in the northwestern region of the country. Covering an area of 605 km² and with a population of 9,586,195., it is renowned as the birthplace of K-pop. As one of the most expensive cities in South Korea, Seoul boasts a plethora of tourist attractions, ensuring a pleasant and safe experience for visitors from around the world. It is often regarded as the world’s happiest city due to its wealth, high health standards, low crime rates, and robust citizen support systems.Presenting the 5 must-visit tourist attractions in Seoul.
Gyeongbokgung Palace
Gyeongbokgung Palace, the most captivating tourist destination in Seoul and arguably in all of Korea, is an iconic landmark located in northern Seoul. Built by the Joseon dynasty (the last and longest-reigning imperial dynasty of Korea, from 1392 to 1910), Gyeongbokgung is one of the five grand palaces constructed by the dynasty. Serving as the royal residence and the center of government administration, the palace was destroyed during the Japanese invasion in 1592. It lay in ruins for many years before being restored in 1867, 270 years after the invasion. Now a major tourist attraction, Gyeongbokgung Palace is especially beautiful in autumn, making it an ideal time for a visit. Remember to bring a camera, as there are numerous photogenic spots. Tourist guides are available in several languages to assist visitors, ensuring an enjoyable experience. Remarkably, entrance to this historic palace is free. Gyeongbokgung Palace offers a glimpse into the opulent life of Korean royalty and symbolizes the nation’s enduring spirit and commitment to preserving its historical heritage.
Lotte Tower
Lotte Tower, the sixth tallest building in the world, stands at 123 floors and 555 meters high. Opened to the public on April 3, 2017, after nearly eight years of construction, the tower features galleries, cafés, a luxury hotel, a skywalk, and an observation deck. It is a premier location to enjoy stunning views of Seoul’s vibrant city lights. Adjacent to Lotte Tower is the expansive Lotte World Mall complex, where visitors can shop extensively, visit the aquarium, or attend a show at the music hall or cinema. The picturesque Seokchon Lake beside Lotte World enhances the tower’s allure. The best time to visit is in April during the Cherry Blossom Festival at Seokchon Lake, when the blossoms are in full bloom, creating a breathtaking scene. This festival attracts numerous tourists each year. Lotte World Tower exemplifies human ingenuity and creativity, and its impressive height and striking design have made it a landmark in Seoul’s skyline.
Namsan Tower
Namsan Tower, a communication and observation tower, is situated on Namsan Mountain in central Seoul. Constructed in 1971 but opened to the public in October 1980, it has been an iconic landmark and a major tourist destination for the past four decades. The cable car, which began operating in 1962, transports passengers from the mountain’s base to the tower’s foundation, adding to the tower’s charm. Visitors can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of Seoul from the top of Namsan Mountain, making it a must-do activity. The tower comprises the N Lobby, N Plaza, and N Tower. Another intriguing feature is the love lock bridge, where couples attach locks inscribed with their names or special messages to designated hangers on the railing as they make a wish.
national museum
Korea National Museum conserves, studies, showcases, and promotes Korea’s vital cultural heritage on an international scale. As the flagship museTheum in Korea, established in 1945, it spans three floors. The first floor houses the Prehistoric and Ancient History Gallery, the second floor features The Donation Exhibit and the Gallery of Calligraphy and Paintings, and the third floor contains the Sculpture and Crafts Gallery. For anyone interested in learning about South Korean culture and history, this museum is a must-visit. The remarkable scenery outside the museum also warrants exploration. Overall, this freely accessible museum, with its well-organized exhibition spaces and welcoming atmosphere, meets the standards of a national museum and is an excellent place to spend 2-3 hours on any day of the week.
Bukchon Hanok Village
Bukchon Hanok Village is home to numerous traditional Korean houses called hanoks, with over 800 preserved houses. Located near Gyeongbokgung Palace, visitors can learn about Korean architecture by observing these houses. Several of these hanoks function as cultural centers, guesthouses, restaurants, and tea houses, offering visitors the opportunity to engage with, learn about, and immerse themselves in traditional Korean culture. As a hilly area, the village can be quite crowded, so visiting on a weekday is advisable. For those wanting to rent a hanok for an overnight stay, this option is available. The best times to visit Bukchon Hanok Village are during the spring and autumn seasons when the weather is pleasant, and the village is at its most picturesque.
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