Seoul

Seoul is the capital city of South Korea, located in the northwestern part of the country. It is a bustling and modern metropolis, known for its impressive technology, pop culture, and historic landmarks. Seoul is home to many historic sites, including the Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace, and the Bukchon Hanok Village.

The city is also famous for its street food, such as tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), bulgogi (grilled marinated beef), and kimchi (fermented vegetables). Seoul is a center for technology and innovation, and is home to many international companies, such as Samsung and LG. The city has a temperate climate, with hot and humid summers and cold winters.

The public transportation system in Seoul is highly efficient, including a subway system, buses, and taxis, providing easy access to all parts of the city. Seoul is also home to two major international airports, serving millions of passengers each year.

  • Country: South Korea
  • Capital city of the country: Seoul
  • Population: 9.7 million
  • Language: Korean
  • Currency & Exchange Rate: South Korean won (KRW), 1 KRW = 0.00086 USD (as of February 2023)
  • Area size: 605.2 km²
  • Main airports: Incheon International Airport, Gimpo International Airport
  • Visitors per year: Approximately 13.8 million
  • Official website for visa application: https://www.visa.go.kr/

TOP 10 Things To Do in Seoul

Here are the top 10 must-visit activities in Seoul, South Korea:

  1. Gyeongbokgung Palace: One of the most iconic palaces in Seoul, built in the 14th century, with beautiful gardens and traditional Korean architecture.
  1. Namsan Tower: Also known as the Seoul Tower, this iconic tower offers stunning panoramic views of the city and has become a symbol of Seoul.
  1. Myeong-dong: A popular shopping district with a mix of local and international brands, as well as street food and entertainment options.
  • Price: Free
  • Opening Hours: Always open
  • Website: N/A
  1. Bukchon Hanok Village: A beautiful traditional village with restored Korean houses, offering a glimpse into traditional Korean architecture and culture.
  • Price: Free
  • Opening Hours: Always open
  • Website: N/A
  1. Changdeokgung Palace: Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, this palace is known for its beautiful gardens and traditional architecture.
  1. Seoul Forest: A beautiful green space in the heart of the city, with walking trails, gardens, and a large eco-friendly playground for children.
  1. Insadong: A popular neighborhood with traditional Korean tea houses, art galleries, and handicrafts.
  • Price: Free
  • Opening Hours: Always open
  • Website: N/A
  1. Hongdae: A vibrant area near Hongik University, known for its street art, nightlife, and indie music scene.
  • Price: Free
  • Opening Hours: Always open
  • Website: N/A
  1. War Memorial of Korea: A large museum and memorial dedicated to the history of the Korean War, with many interesting exhibits and artifacts.
  1. Lotte World: A popular theme park with a variety of rides, attractions, and entertainment options, including an indoor section that is open year-round.

Here are the top 10 activities for kids in Seoul, South Korea:

  1. Lotte World: An indoor/outdoor amusement park with rides and attractions for all ages.
  1. Seoul Grand Park Zoo: A zoo with a wide variety of animals, including tigers, lions, and pandas.
  1. Children’s Grand Park: A large public park with playgrounds, sports fields, and a zoo.
  1. Seoul Land: An amusement park with rides and attractions for all ages.
  1. National Museum of Korea: A museum with exhibits on Korean history and culture.
  1. Namsan Tower: A tall tower with panoramic views of the city and a museum on the history of Seoul.
  1. Gyeongbokgung Palace: A historic palace with traditional Korean architecture and gardens.
  1. Trickeye Museum Seoul: A museum with 3D optical illusion exhibits that allow visitors to interact and take photos.
  1. Seoul Children’s Museum: A museum with interactive exhibits and activities for children.
  1. Seoul Forest: A large public park with playgrounds, sports fields, and a deer park.

Here are the top 10 neighborhoods in Seoul, South Korea:

  1. Gangnam: Made famous by the hit song “Gangnam Style,” Gangnam is a trendy and upscale neighborhood that is known for its high-end shopping, fine dining restaurants, and vibrant nightlife.
  2. Myeong-dong: A popular shopping district that is located in the heart of Seoul, Myeong-dong is known for its bustling street markets, cosmetics shops, and trendy cafes.
  3. Hongdae: A bohemian and artistic neighborhood that is popular with students and young professionals, Hongdae is known for its street art, live music venues, and hip cafes and bars.
  4. Insadong: A traditional and historic neighborhood that is known for its traditional Korean crafts, tea houses, and street food, Insadong is a great place to experience Seoul’s rich cultural heritage.
  5. Itaewon: A cosmopolitan and diverse neighborhood that is popular with expats and foreigners, Itaewon is known for its international restaurants, trendy cafes, and vibrant nightlife.
  6. Gwanghwamun: A historic and cultural neighborhood that is home to many of Seoul’s most famous landmarks and attractions, including Gyeongbokgung Palace, the National Museum of Korean Contemporary History, and the statue of Admiral Yi Sun-sin.
  7. Gyeongridan: A hip and trendy neighborhood that is located near Itaewon, Gyeongridan is known for its trendy cafes, boutique shops, and lively nightlife.
  8. Jongno: A historic and cultural neighborhood that is home to many of Seoul’s most famous landmarks and attractions, including Changdeokgung Palace, the Jongmyo Shrine, and the Bukchon Hanok Village.
  9. Seorae Village: A charming and upscale neighborhood that is popular with expats and affluent Koreans, Seorae Village is known for its French-inspired cafes, boutiques, and restaurants.
  10. Sinsa-dong: A trendy and upscale neighborhood that is popular with young professionals and fashionistas, Sinsa-dong is known for its trendy cafes, boutique shops, and high-end fashion boutiques.

Here are the top 10 restaurants in Seoul, South Korea:

  1. La Yeon: Michelin-starred Korean restaurant serving traditional cuisine with a modern twist.
  1. Jungsik: Michelin-starred restaurant serving modern Korean cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients.
  • Price range: $$$$ (expensive)
  • Location: 11 Seolleung-ro 158-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
  • Website: https://www.jungsik.kr/
  1. Mingles: Michelin-starred restaurant offering modern Korean cuisine made with locally-sourced ingredients.
  1. Gotgan: Michelin-starred restaurant serving traditional Korean cuisine with a focus on classic dishes and flavors.
  • Price range: $$$ – $$$$ (moderate to expensive)
  • Location: 37 Dosan-daero 81-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
  • Website: https://www.gotgan.kr/
  1. Ryunique: Michelin-starred restaurant offering French-Korean fusion cuisine.
  1. Kwonsooksoo: Michelin-starred restaurant serving traditional Korean cuisine with a focus on seasonality and freshness.
  • Price range: $$$ – $$$$ (moderate to expensive)
  • Location: 32, Dosan-daero 13-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
  • Website: https://www.kwonsooksoo.com/
  1. Baekje Samgyetang: Michelin-starred restaurant specializing in samgyetang, a traditional Korean dish made with chicken and ginseng.
  1. Muni: Michelin-starred Korean restaurant offering a wide range of traditional dishes made with high-quality ingredients.
  1. Onjium: Michelin-starred Korean restaurant serving traditional cuisine with a focus on seafood.
  1. Table 34: Michelin-starred French restaurant offering a multi-course tasting menu.

Here are the top 10 shopping areas in Seoul, South Korea:

  1. Myeong-dong: This bustling shopping district is known for its trendy boutiques, department stores, and street food stalls. It’s the most popular shopping area in Seoul and a must-visit for fashion-conscious shoppers.
  2. Gangnam: This upscale neighborhood is known for its luxury fashion boutiques, designer stores, and gourmet restaurants. It’s a great place to indulge in luxury shopping and dining.
  3. Hongdae: This trendy neighborhood is known for its independent boutiques, vintage shops, and trendy cafes. It’s a great place to find unique clothing and accessories with a local touch.
  4. Dongdaemun: This historic neighborhood is known for its traditional markets, selling everything from textiles to electronics to souvenirs. It’s a great place to find unique gifts and souvenirs with a Korean touch.
  5. Garosu-gil: This tree-lined street is located in the upscale neighborhood of Sinsa-dong and features many unique boutiques, art galleries, and trendy cafes. It’s a great place to find one-of-a-kind items and unique souvenirs.
  6. COEX Mall: This large shopping mall is located in the Gangnam district and features many high-end fashion boutiques, department stores, and gourmet restaurants. It’s a great place to shop and dine in luxury.
  7. Insadong: This historic neighborhood is known for its traditional crafts, pottery, and souvenirs. It’s a great place to find unique gifts and souvenirs with a Korean touch.
  8. Namdaemun Market: This historic market is one of the largest in Seoul, selling everything from textiles to souvenirs to traditional Korean food. It’s a great place to experience local culture and cuisine.
  9. Itaewon: This international neighborhood is known for its independent boutiques, vintage shops, and unique cafes and restaurants. It’s a great place to find one-of-a-kind items and international cuisine.
  10. Seoul Station: This large transportation hub features a shopping mall, selling everything from fashion to electronics to groceries. It’s a convenient place to shop and dine while waiting for a train or bus.

Here are the top 10 museums in Seoul, South Korea:

  1. The National Museum of Korea: A museum with exhibits related to the history and culture of Korea, including artifacts from prehistoric times to the present day.
  1. The National Palace Museum of Korea: A museum with exhibits related to the history and culture of the Joseon Dynasty, including royal regalia, artwork, and architecture.
  • Price: ₩3,000 (about $2.50 USD) for adults, ₩1,500 (about $1.30 USD) for children and seniors.
  • Website: www.gogung.go.kr
  1. The Seoul Museum of Art: A museum with a collection of modern and contemporary art from Korea and around the world.
  1. The National Folk Museum of Korea: A museum with exhibits related to traditional Korean life and culture, including clothing, food, and architecture.
  1. The Leeum, Samsung Museum of Art: A museum with a collection of modern and contemporary art from Korea and around the world, housed in a building designed by renowned architects Jean Nouvel and Mario Botta.
  • Price: ₩10,000 (about $8.50 USD) for adults, ₩5,000 (about $4.25 USD) for children and students.
  • Website: www.leeum.org
  1. The Seoul Museum of History: A museum with exhibits related to the history and culture of Seoul, including traditional costumes, maps, and photographs.
  1. The War Memorial of Korea: A museum with exhibits related to the Korean War and the history of the Korean armed forces, including weapons, vehicles, and aircraft.
  1. The Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP): A museum with exhibits related to design and architecture, as well as a conference center and exhibition space.
  1. The Seoul Museum of Chicken Art: A museum with exhibits related to chicken and rooster-themed art and artifacts, including paintings, sculptures, and ceramics.
  • Price: ₩6,000 (about $5 USD) for adults, ₩4,000 (about $3.50 USD) for children and seniors.
  • Website: www.moca.or.kr
  1. The Tteok & Kitchen Utensil Museum: A museum with exhibits related to traditional Korean rice cakes (tteok) and kitchen utensils, including rice pounders, mortar and pestles, and sieves.
  • Price: Free admission.
  • Website: tteokmuseum.seoul.go.kr

Here are the top 10 parks in Seoul, in no particular order:

  1. Seoul Forest: This is Seoul’s largest park, located in the Seongdong-gu district, and features several walking and biking paths, a large lake, and several playgrounds. It’s a popular spot for outdoor activities and cultural events.
  2. Gyeongbokgung Palace and Gardens: This park is located near the Gyeongbokgung Palace and features several historical landmarks, including the National Folk Museum of Korea and several gardens. It’s a popular spot for cultural events and sightseeing.
  3. Namsan Park: This park is located near the Namsan Tower and features several walking paths, a large green area, and several picnic areas. It’s a popular spot for hiking, picnics, and cultural events.
  4. Hangang Park: This park is located along the Han River and features several walking and biking paths, a large green area, and several picnic areas. It’s a popular spot for outdoor activities and relaxation.
  5. Olympic Park: This park is located near the Olympic Stadium and features several sports facilities, a large lake, and several gardens. It’s a popular spot for outdoor activities and cultural events.
  6. World Cup Park: This park is located near the World Cup Stadium and features several walking and biking paths, a large lake, and several picnic areas. It’s a popular spot for outdoor activities and relaxation.
  7. Yeouido Park: This park is located on Yeouido Island and features several walking and biking paths, a large lake, and several gardens. It’s a popular spot for outdoor activities and cultural events.
  8. Seonyudo Park: This park is located on Seonyudo Island and features several walking paths, a large lake, and several gardens. It’s a popular spot for relaxation and cultural events.
  9. Dream Forest: This park is located in the Gangbuk-gu district and features several walking and biking paths, a large lake, and several picnic areas. It’s a popular spot for outdoor activities and relaxation.
  10. Seoul Grand Park: This park is located in the Gwacheon city and features several attractions, including the Seoul Zoo, the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, and several gardens. It’s a popular spot for families and cultural enthusiasts.

Here are the top 10 events in Seoul, South Korea:

  1. Seoul Lantern Festival: A lantern festival featuring various themed lanterns illuminating the city streets
  1. Seoul International Fireworks Festival: A fireworks festival featuring local and international pyrotechnic teams
  1. Seoul Fashion Week: A fashion event featuring both Korean and international designers
  1. Buddha’s Birthday Festival: A festival celebrating Buddha’s birthday with parades, traditional performances, and lotus lanterns
  1. Seoul International Music Fair (MU:CON): A music fair featuring both Korean and international musicians, and music industry professionals
  1. Seoul Lantern Parade: A parade featuring large lantern floats and performers
  1. Seoul Kimchi Festival: A festival celebrating Korea’s national dish, kimchi, with tastings, cooking classes, and cultural performances
  1. Seoul Food & Hospitality Expo: A food and hospitality industry trade show featuring exhibits, seminars, and networking opportunities
  1. Seoul Performing Arts Festival: A performing arts festival featuring theater, dance, music, and other performances
  1. Seoul Jazz Festival: A jazz festival featuring both Korean and international musicians

Opening hours & prices are subject to changes. Please visit the website for updated information.

TOP 10 Things You Need To Know About Seoul

Weather in Seoul:

Seoul has a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Here are the average temperatures in Seoul throughout the year:

  • Spring (March to May): 5-20°C (41-68°F)
  • Summer (June to August): 19-29°C (66-84°F)
  • Fall (September to November): 7-21°C (45-70°F)
  • Winter (December to February): -7-6°C (19-43°F)

Peak Season: Seoul’s peak tourist season is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and many cultural events and festivals take place. The months of April and October are especially popular for their beautiful cherry blossoms and fall foliage, respectively.

Off-Peak Season: The best time to visit Seoul in terms of smaller crowds and more affordable prices is during the winter months from December to February. Although the weather may be cold, the city is beautifully decorated for the holiday season, and there are many indoor activities and attractions to enjoy.

In addition, visiting during the summer months can be a great option for those interested in outdoor activities and events, but it can be hot and humid.

In summary, the best time to visit Seoul is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and many cultural events and festivals take place. If you’re looking for more affordable prices and don’t mind the cold weather, visiting during the winter months can also be a great option. Additionally, visiting during the summer months can be a good option for those interested in outdoor activities and events, but expect hot and humid weather.

Here’s a summary of transportation options for getting around Seoul:

  1. Subway: Seoul has an extensive subway system operated by Seoul Metro and Korail that covers most parts of the city. A single ride on either system typically costs between KRW 1,350 to KRW 2,450 (about $1.20 to $2.20 USD) depending on the distance traveled. There are also various types of passes available, including a T-money card, which is a contactless payment card that can be topped up with cash and used to pay for subway rides and bus fares. The official website to buy transportation tickets and for the map of the lines is https://www.seoulmetro.co.kr/ and https://www.letskorail.com/ebizbf/EbizBfTicketSearch.do.
  2. Bus: Seoul also has an extensive bus network that covers areas not serviced by the subway. A single ride typically costs between KRW 1,200 to KRW 2,400 (about $1.10 to $2.10 USD) depending on the type of bus and the distance traveled. There are also various types of passes available, including a T-money card. The official website to buy transportation tickets and for the map of the lines is https://www.seoul.go.kr/corona_virus.jsp?tab=3#tab3.
  3. Train: Seoul has an extensive train network, including the KTX and several other lines that connect different parts of the city and also the surrounding areas. The cost of train rides depends on the distance traveled and the type of train. There are various types of passes available, including a Korail Pass for tourists that allows unlimited travel on Korail trains for a set period. The official website to buy transportation tickets and for the map of the lines is https://www.letskorail.com/ebizbf/EbizBfTicketSearch.do and https://www.arex.or.kr/eng/.
  4. Taxi: Taxis are readily available in Seoul, and they are metered. The base fare is KRW 3,800 (about $3.40 USD), and the cost per kilometer is KRW 100-200 (about $0.09 to $0.18 USD). There may be additional charges for tolls and late-night rides.
  5. Rideshare: Rideshare services like Uber and KakaoTaxi are available in Seoul. The cost varies depending on the distance traveled and the time of day.
  6. Bike: There are several bike rental options available in Seoul, including a bike-sharing system called T-bike. The cost varies depending on the rental company and the length of the rental.

Overall, Seoul’s public transportation system is extensive and efficient, with the subway being the most convenient and cost-effective option for getting around the city. However, buses and trains can also be useful for reaching destinations not serviced by the subway. Taxis and rideshares can be useful for short trips or exploring specific areas of the city. Bikes can be a great way to explore Seoul’s parks and riverside paths.

Here are the top 10 celebrities from Seoul:

  1. Bong Joon-ho: born 1969 – film director and screenwriter, awarded the Palme d’Or and four Academy Awards
  2. Psy: born 1977 – singer, rapper, and record producer, known for the hit song “Gangnam Style”
  3. Lee Min-ho: born 1987 – actor and singer
  4. Kim Yuna: born 1990 – retired figure skater and Olympic gold medalist
  5. Park Chan-wook: born 1963 – film director, screenwriter, and producer
  6. IU: born 1993 – singer-songwriter and actress
  7. BTS: formed in 2013 – seven-member boy band, known for their global popularity and success
  8. Lee Byung-hun: born 1970 – actor and singer
  9. Lee Na-young: born 1979 – actress and model
  10. Son Ye-jin: born 1982 – actress.

Here are 10 notable movies that were filmed in Seoul, South Korea:

  1. Parasite (2019) – This critically acclaimed film by Bong Joon-ho takes place in Seoul and explores the social and economic divides between two families.
  2. Oldboy (2003) – This iconic South Korean revenge thriller features several memorable scenes shot in Seoul, including a fight sequence in a hallway.
  3. The Host (2006) – This monster movie takes place in Seoul and follows a family as they try to rescue their daughter from a giant creature that emerges from the Han River.
  4. My Sassy Girl (2001) – This romantic comedy is set in Seoul and follows the story of a college student who falls in love with a quirky and unpredictable woman.
  5. Train to Busan (2016) – This zombie apocalypse film follows a group of passengers on a train from Seoul to Busan as they fight for survival against the undead.
  6. Swiri (1999) – This South Korean action film features several scenes set in Seoul and follows a team of agents as they try to stop a terrorist group.
  7. I Saw the Devil (2010) – This violent thriller takes place in Seoul and follows a secret agent as he seeks revenge against the serial killer who murdered his fiancée.
  8. The Handmaiden (2016) – This erotic thriller is set in Korea during the Japanese occupation and features stunning shots of Seoul’s historic architecture.
  9. Joint Security Area (2000) – This drama explores the relationship between North and South Korea through the story of a shooting incident at the Joint Security Area in the Demilitarized Zone.
  10. Winter Sonata (2002) – This popular Korean drama is set in Seoul and follows the love story of two high school sweethearts who reunite years later as adults.

Here are the last 10 mayors of Seoul, South Korea:

  1. Oh Se-hoon (2021-present)
  2. Seo Jeong-hyup (2021)
  3. Park Won-soon (2011-2020)
  4. Oh Se-hoon (2006-2011)
  5. Lee Myung-bak (2002-2006)
  6. Goh Kun (1998-2002)
  7. Chung Mong-joon (1995-1998)
  8. Kim Yong-rae (1991-1995)
  9. Kim Hyun-ok (1989-1991)
  10. Lee Young-sup (1986-1989)

Note that the position of Mayor of Seoul was replaced by that of the head of the Seoul Metropolitan Government in 2006. However, the mayor remains the chief executive of the city government. Oh Se-hoon is the current mayor of Seoul, having won a by-election in 2021 following the death of former mayor Park Won-soon.

Here are 10 interesting facts about Seoul, South Korea:

  1. Seoul is the capital city of South Korea and is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious food.
  2. The Gyeongbokgung Palace is a historic palace in Seoul that was originally built in 1395. It features beautiful architecture, stunning gardens, and is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
  3. The Namsan Tower is a communications tower in Seoul that stands at 236 meters tall. It offers stunning views of the city from its observation deck and is a popular destination for tourists.
  4. The Han River is a major river that runs through Seoul and is an important transportation route and recreational area.
  5. Myeong-dong is a popular shopping district in Seoul that is known for its trendy fashion boutiques, beauty shops, and street food stalls.
  6. The Changdeokgung Palace is another historic palace in Seoul that is known for its beautiful gardens and architecture. It was built in 1405 and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  7. Korean cuisine is known for its delicious and spicy dishes, including kimchi, bulgogi, and bibimbap. Seoul is a great place to sample a variety of traditional Korean dishes and street food.
  8. The Bukchon Hanok Village is a traditional village in Seoul that features beautiful Korean-style houses and narrow streets. It is a popular destination for tourists who want to experience traditional Korean culture.
  9. Seoul is a city of technology and innovation, with a high-tech infrastructure and a strong focus on science and technology research.
  10. The Lotte World Tower is a modern skyscraper in Seoul that stands at 555 meters tall. It is the fifth-tallest building in the world and is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions.

Here are ten popular entertainment venues in Seoul:

  1. Seoul Arts Center – a large cultural complex that includes a variety of theaters and concert halls for classical music performances, theater shows, and other cultural events
  2. Olympic Park Stadium – a large stadium that has hosted various sporting events and concerts, including K-Pop concerts
  3. Myeongdong Theater – a small but popular theater that showcases traditional Korean performances, such as musicals, dance shows, and operas
  4. Blue Square – a modern theater complex that includes multiple performance spaces for various shows, concerts, and events
  5. Jamsil Olympic Stadium – a large stadium that has hosted major sporting events and concerts, including K-Pop concerts and other musical performances
  6. Dongdaemun Design Plaza – a futuristic building that includes exhibition spaces, a convention center, and an outdoor event space for various shows, performances, and cultural events
  7. Hongdae Street – a popular area known for its nightlife, street performances, and live music venues
  8. Nanta Theater – a unique performance venue that features a non-verbal comedy show with cooking and percussion elements
  9. Korean National Ballet – a ballet company that performs at various theaters and cultural centers in Seoul
  10. The National Theater of Korea – a large performing arts center that includes multiple theaters and performance spaces for traditional Korean music, dance, and theater shows.